Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) fixes to the side of your bed so baby is close enough for nighttime feeding, but in their own sleeping area. Our mums love how they are simple to reach, and can also rotate the sides or lower them to be closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper allows parents to monitor, comfort and feed their newborns at the night without worrying about the risks of sharing a bed. This can result in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are in line with NHS guidelines for co-sleeping, and are recommended by childcare experts, such as Dr. McKenna director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also help foster healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach developmental milestones. Parents should search for bassinets which are easy to clean, safe to use, and are certified by a trusted organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert from the bassinet into a bedside sleeper, by lowering one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, allowing some portions of the lower portion to be elevated level above the mattress, presenting an increased risk of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision by reference to the existing mandatory standards under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products which are in use for longer than 180 days and is expected to lower the chance of injury.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should never be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This can pose the risk of suffocation since many young children aren't able to raise their heads sufficiently to keep them from soft objects and a reclined position can cause the head to tip forward, obstructing their airway. Always put your child on their back when using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that is in compliance with the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is important to keep your baby close during the night. This helps create a bond between newborns and parents. Bedside sleeper bassets are secured to the sides of your mattress, allowing you to easily reach your baby for feedings, diaper changes, and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were translucent enough to see through, so you could watch your baby without having to leave your bed.
It's important that the bassinet you pick is deemed safe for infants by an independent testing organisation and that it meets all specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for a broad base, a strong attachment mechanism and sturdy construction that prevents the bassinet from falling over. A mattress that is breathable is important also.
Look for a model that has an option for manual rocking. This will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them sleep. Some models also have tilt options, which can be helpful for newborns with reflux or colic, but should only be used under the advice of your GP or health professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Buy a mattress designed to fit the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and could pose a SIDS risk. It is also necessary to invest in a breathable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. To make cleaning easier make sure that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be washed in a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a convenient feature to store things like nappies, clothing and muslins. You can also find models that have wheels for mobility around the house.
Support for breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed, a cot that sleeps at your bedside will help you make the most of your feedings at night. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby whenever they wake up. The cot's sides can be lowered to create a bassinet that is shallow for a secure side-by-side sleep. Some models also tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides of the cot ensure that it's easy to spot your baby, and they won't slide off of the side as you lift them up to feed. Some cots with a bedside sleeper feature an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and encourage them to fall asleep more quickly after a feed.
A soft fabric, as well as removable and machine-washable bedding can be useful in keeping your baby clean. bedside crib and cot come with gentle rocking and vibration features that can help soothe your baby into sleep. Ample storage space is also a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers because it is convenient and provides a close bond with their baby while they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a sleeping space with their mothers have better outcomes than babies who are bottle-fed. But, it is crucial to be aware of the hazards and practices that come with sharing a crib with a newborn and choose a safe mattress for your infant.
Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft surfaces on the edges, which could keep your baby in the bag. You should also be careful to not let the bedside device slide backwards. This could cause an opening through which your child can crawl or roll.
If you're concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside take a look at attending an LLL meeting or talking with a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can assist you in creating an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby and also explain the dangers of SIDS. They can also show you how to get the "sweet sleep the nursing mothers get and includes a variety of safeguards that are similar to breastfeeding.